On the debut album from this two-piece band, the duo meshes alternative verve with country rock instrumentation, while Amy McBryde’s fast-moving vocals fire off reflections and accusations with equal commitment. Whether brashly plugging along (as is the case with most of the songs) or slowing down to more introspective pacing (e.g., “Christmas in Dogtown”), the guitars support the lyrical moods quite well, and McBryde’s vocal work complements the strains and bridges with emotional aplomb. Firm self-support in the face of adversity crops up in the verses of nearly every song, making the few points of open vulnerability stand out all the more sharply, and despite the narrow variety to the guitar licks, the album succeeds in at least feeling as though it’s delivering a larger experience, thanks to the strength of personality on display.
Scrambled Brains 